Ukraine’s Olympic sports: Top 10 needs in hostile conditions

The events that unfolded since 24 February 2022 in Ukraine have left no sector untouched, including sports. Ukrainian Olympic athletes face multiple challenges as they strive to maintain their training and competitiveness. A recent Delphi study, which was already presented by Olga Kuvaldina at our latest EOA Congress in Vilnius, reveals the top needs of Ukraine’s Olympic sports sector during the ongoing hostile conditions.

Conducted by researchers Oleh Rybak, Larysa Taran, Viktor Derkach, Svitlana Biryuk and Olga Kuvaldina from Ukraine, alongside Cesar Agostinis-Sobrinho and Asta Sarkauskiene, President of the Lithuanian Olympic Academy, the study utilised the Delphi method – a structured communication technique. This method involved panel discussions with 7 additional experts from the field followed by three rounds of surveys with 42 participants, including coaches, athletes, and sports scientists. This approach was well suited to prioritise expert opinions and gather the most pressing needs for the Olympic community in Ukraine amidst the ongoing war.

Top 10 needs of Ukraine’s Olympic Sports

Develop and maintain the athlete’s fitness level.

Implementation of a better system of athlete recovery.

To ensure a safe training place for athletes.

Improve the quality of athlete training programme.

Develop a logistical and technical base for specialised sports educational organisation.

Provide sports facilities with modern equipment and inventory.

Increase the level of funding for Olympic Reserve Sports.

Financial support of sports teams and talented athletes.

Prohibition of international competitions on the territory of the aggressor country.

Better cooperation between the NSFs of Ukraine and the International Sports Federations.

The study identified targeted and well-informed priorities for the development of Ukraine’s Olympic sports whilst highlighting the resilience of Ukraine’s sports community. At the same time, appropriate directions for international supporting actions are outlined, that are expected to have a major impact on safeguarding Ukrainian athletes’ career prospects. By focusing on the identified priorities, the global community can help Ukrainian athletes continue to inspire and compete, even in the face of adversity.

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For further information on the research subject, please refer to the open-source study published in BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine Journal on the following webpage.